CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — A landmark event is set to take place as the first direct commercial flight between the United States and Venezuela is scheduled to land in Caracas on Thursday. This development marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations, occurring seven years after the U.S. Department of Homeland Security imposed an indefinite suspension of flights, citing security concerns.
The resumption of commercial flights comes on the heels of notable political changes, particularly following the U.S. capture of Nicolás Maduro during a dramatic nighttime raid on his residence in Caracas in early January. This operation has drawn international attention and shifted dynamics between the two nations.
In addition to the flight's timing, the U.S. recently reestablished its embassy in Caracas, formally renewing diplomatic relations with Venezuela just a month prior to this flight. The historical Flight AA3599, operated by Envoy Air—a subsidiary of American Airlines—is slated to depart from Miami at 10:16 a.m. local time, arriving in Caracas approximately three hours later. The return flight to Florida is expected to take place later in the afternoon.
American Airlines has announced that a second daily flight from Miami to Caracas will commence on May 21. These steps are indicative of the airline's commitment to reconnecting families and facilitating business opportunities between the two countries, which have experienced a tense relationship over the past few years.
In January, during discussions with Venezuela's acting President Delcy Rodríguez, U.S. President Donald Trump communicated plans to open all commercial airspace over Venezuela. His remarks included assurances that American citizens would soon be able to travel to Venezuela safely.
The reintroduction of these flights signifies the first nonstop travel options available between the United States and Venezuela since diplomatic relations soured in 2019. During this period, travelers had to rely on international airlines and take indirect routes through neighboring Latin American countries, complicating access to Venezuela.
American Airlines was the last remaining U.S. carrier operating flights to Venezuela, ceasing its services in 2019 for routes between Miami and Caracas, and flights to the oil hub city of Maracaibo. Other major airlines such as Delta and United Airlines had previously exited the Venezuelan market in 2017 amidst a broader political crisis that led millions to flee the country in search of safety and better opportunities.
This revival of flights is crucial for Venezuelans with family ties in the U.S. and for American citizens seeking to explore business ventures in Venezuela. The recent political developments and renewed diplomatic relations pave the way for a transformative chapter in the history of U.S.-Venezuela interactions, marking a potential shift towards normalized travel and greater cooperation.
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